Καλό Πάσχα! Institute’s Easter greetings

The institute is on Easter break from Thursday, 17 April to Wednesday, 23 April 2025.


Below are some Greek Easter traditions. (Click to enlarge the images!)

DYEING AND CRACKING EGGS. At Easter in Greece, dyeing eggs—usually red-symbolizes the blood of Christ and the promise of new life through the Resurrection. On Holy Thursday, families come together to dye the eggs, preparing for the celebration. During the Resurrection service on Saturday and on Easter Sunday, people play a game called tsougkrisma, where each person taps their egg against another's; the one whose egg doesn't crack is said to have good luck.
HOLY FRIDAY. On Holy Friday, known as Megáli Paraskeví in Greek tradition, the solemn procession of the Epitaphios takes place in the evening. Decorated with flowers by the faithful, the Epitaphios is carried through the streets in a candlelit procession, accompanied by hymns and mourning. It symbolizes Christ's burial and invites reflection on sacrifice, sorrow, and the hope of Resurrection.
EASTER SATURDAY. On Easter Saturday in Greek tradition, people gather in churches at 11 p.m., holding unlit candles in anticipation. At midnight, the priest announces Christ's Resurrection, and the Aghio Fos (Holy Light) is passed from candle to candle, symbolizing the light of new life and the victory over death. The moment is celebrated with chants, fireworks, and heartfelt embraces among families and friends.
MAGIRITSA SOUP. In Greece, magiritsa is a traditional soup eaten after the midnight Resurrection service on Holy Saturday. It is made from lamb offal, herbs and an egg-lemon sauce, symbolizing renewal and marking the end of the Lenten fast.
EASTER SUNDAY. Easter Sunday in Greek tradition is a day of joy and celebration, marking Christ's Resurrection. Families gather for festive meals, with the traditional roasting of lamb, symbolizing the Lamb of God and new life.
TRADITIONAL PASTRIES. Tsoureki is a sweet, braided bread flavored with aromatic spices like mahlepi and mastiha, traditionally baked for Easter. Koulourakia are buttery, crunchy Easter cookies, often shaped into twists or coils and topped with sesame seeds.


Happy Easter! Καλό Πάσχα!